Food & Drink
Here’s Where to Dine and Drink in the Bay Area This Holiday Season
The Second Story at Little Saint (Photo by Emma K. Morris)Looking for a festive night out on the town with your favorite folks this holiday season? Then head to one (or all) of these local hot spots to dine and drink to your heart’s content.
25 North Street, Healdsburg
This 100 percent plant-based restaurant, coffee bar, wine lounge, cocktail bar and music venue has it all. The mocktails are as creative as the cocktails, and the vast wine selection features sustainable producers. Gather at the first-floor cafe and lounge for happy hour and then head upstairs to the Second Story for a locally sourced, seasonal dinner. What to try: Carrot Skin Tepache, a spirit-free sparkling refresher that features cardamom, lemon and gentian root.
15 Shoreline Highway, Mill Valley
With its cozy atmosphere, Buckeye Roadhouse is the perfect spot for a celebratory dinner with your people. Settle into the rustic-style dining room for a hearty meal, and make sure to try the cocktails, too, since everyone’s favorite local bartender, Jeff Burkhart, whips up drinks here. What to try: the famous S’more Pie, an elevated version of the classic treat.
1201 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael
Above Fifth is San Rafael’s first rooftop bar and lounge. This casual downtown retreat situated atop the new AC Hotel serves up craft cocktails and bar bites, so pop up here with your pals for happy hour or a nightcap by the fire pit. Both locals and guests alike will enjoy the stunning views. What to try: Sparkling Margarita, which gives a bubbly twist to an iconic drink.
1314 McKinstry Street, Napa
With an abundance of places to choose from in Napa, fine dining establishment La Toque is a standout. Dress to the nines and enjoy an elegant but unpretentious, seasonally driven dinner; opt for the à la carte options or explore chef Ken Frank’s tasting menus. What to try: For the complete Napa experience, add the wine pairings to your dinner.
152 Shoreline Highway, Mill Valley
This hotel-adjacent spot offers food, drinks and fun for out-of-town guests, but discerning locals also love this hidden gem. Engage in friendly competitions in pool, shuffleboard and darts in the game room, or hit up the patio for bocce ball. Snag a table or plush leather seat, great for a relaxed evening with friends. What to try: chicken matzo ball soup, the perfect accompaniment to a foggy night.
50 O’Farrell Street, San Francisco
Already famous for its various locations around the world, Chotto Matte is bringing its vibrant atmosphere to Union Square. This top floor destination is a visually captivating experience, with sophisticated interiors and panoramic views of downtown San Francisco. Your late-night dining expectations will be more than satisfied with the Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) cocktails and cuisine. What to try: Pollo den Miso, a true blend of the brand’s signature flavors.
19 Broadway, Fairfax
Mac’s at 19 Broadway is Marin’s go-to for a late night out. The bar’s mixologists have created an extensive list of signature cocktails crafted with fresh syrups and house-made tinctures, but there’s wine and beer on the menu, too. You can also find live music, karaoke and comedy here most nights. What to try: Tony Bennett, a whiskey-based tipple that comes smoked for an aesthetically pleasing as well as delicious experience.
